Sermons

Most of us feel a sense of separation from God, at least at times. We look at our lives, and we see how far we are from fullness and holiness. And then our instincts kick in and we do what comes naturally to us, and that is attempt to claw our way up to God. But this approach leaves us exhausted and disappointed. Jeremiah offers us an alternative, where the way out isn't up, but deeper into the life of God, where we allow him to accomplish in us what can only be done by a power from above.

Most of us feel a sense of separation from God, at least at times. We look at our lives, and we see how far we are from fullness and holiness. And then our instincts kick in and we do what comes naturally to us, and that is attempt to claw our way up to God. But this approach leaves us exhausted and disappointed. Jeremiah offers us an alternative, where the way out isn't up, but deeper into the life of God, where we allow him to accomplish in us what can only be done by a power from above.

Sometimes our lives are like gardens that have not been attended to, and they are in need of renewal. God used Jeremiah to show the Hebrew people how the garden of their hearts could be tilled so that it would put forth flowers again. The principles Jeremiah spoke about are the same ones that can lead to renewal in our hearts and lives as well.

Too often we allow our weaknesses and sinful habits to collect on our lives like barnacles on a ship. The result is that we experience drag on our attempts to live life at its best. Better to turn our attention away from our limitations, and recapture our vision of God's sufficiency and power.

When we become more interested in God than ourselves, a marvelous change takes place. We find that we are able to live courageously, rather than cautiously. We strive for excellence, rather than mediocrity. We choose the best route, rather than the easiest route. In short, we learn to live life at its best!

Disappointment, rejection, unmet expectations - whatever word you wish to use - is an unpleasant experience. Being let down when we really want something, stings, and the pain of these kinds of experiences makes us want to avoid them at all costs, for no one wants to succumb to despair. Acts 17 is a good text to consider as we enter a new year, for it challenges us to rethink how we will serve Christ in freedom, and let go of the expectations we have placed on God.

Images of Christmas tend to focus on the bright and the pleasant - family and presents, delicious food and treats, Christmas trees and colorful decor. Even within the biblical story, we like to shine the spotlight upon the star, and donkeys, the cozy manger, the sparkly angels and the shepherds. But the reality is that at the heart of the story of Advent lies a clash between two kingdoms and a cosmic struggle for power. Revelation 17 teaches us about this battle and how the Savior born in Bethlehem triumphs over everything that is ungodly.

Most of us tend to focus our attention upon a destination. What happens along the way is not as important as the place where we will eventually arrive. In our concentration we can forget that every day, when we set our feet upon the floor, we are continuing a pilgrimage, and what happens as we go is vitally important. The Psalmist teaches us how joy can be ours even as we travel along."dec-11-16-1".

God is like an artist, who knows the importance of letting each coat of paint dry completely. His timing is always impeccable. But when the time is right, big things happen. God moves and his purposes are always completed. Paul reminds us of God's perfect timing, but he also teaches us about one of the greatest gifts we have received from God.

Waiting is a normal part of our lives. Even though we get a lot of practice at it, we generally aren't good at it. Advent is a time to wait. We go back in time to wait for the arrival of Jesus. And we reflect on waiting for his second coming. But in the midst of our waiting, there is work to be done. Isaiah teaches us how we can enter into the mission of Christ, right now, and promote the goodness and grace of Jesus in our sphere of influence.

If your house was on fire, you would grab those items that were most important to you as you escaped. In the same way, Jesus tells us what matters most in our life of faith. Personally responding to his teaching can radically alter the trajectory of our daily lives.